PASTOR KATHY’S PAGE - MAY
Christ is risen! Christ is risen, indeed!! Alleluia! Alleluia!We are deep into the season of Easter, where we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ into the world and into our lives. Easter lasts 50 days, until Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit is celebrated as she makes her way into the Church on May 31st this year.Easter started back in April, on the 12th, where a group of 58 of us gathered for worship before the sun rose … we stood outside the church around a new fire, and lit our candles to celebrate the rebirth of Christ into the world as the sun was starting to peak over the horizon. Into the Sanctuary, we carried our lit candles, filling the space with the soft glow of the new born light.By the end of the morning, over 50 people had eaten breakfast, 300 people had worshipped God, and two people were brought into the community of faith here in this place we call Norway Grove. Praise God for the glorious welcoming of the risen Christ on Easter morn, and every morning of our lives. We are a resurrection people, and we live in the everlasting light of Jesus Christ our Lord.During Easter many exciting things are happening at Norway Grove: On May 3rd, our third graders are celebrating Holy Communion at the 10:30 service. It is an awesome time of increased understanding for these third graders and a welcoming of them at the table in a special way. On May 10th, Mother’s Day, and also the last Sunday of Sunday School for the year, we receive new members at the 10:30 service, so be sure to come to worship with a warm welcome to those who are entering into the body of Christ here in this place. As a special treat on May 10th, seminary student, and daughter of the congregation, Brenda Lovick will be preaching. Brenda is close to completion with her studies and will be seeking call soon. We are very proud of her and are thankful for God’s spirit calling her into ordained ministry and family counseling. This congregation is a big part of launching Brenda into the ministry.On May 17th, it is another big day!!! Thirteen young people are affirming their faith at the 10:30 service. Austen Ayers, Jennifer Betthauser, Marvelle Brown Jr., Michelle Cesario, Eldon Davidson, Rebekah Heisig, William Hewuse, Brock Kirkland, Conner Ludeman, Garrett McClurg, Alexandra Reynolds, Nate Solum, and Brad Urban. Congratulations young people on preparing to affirm your faith on this confirmation day. We look forward to your faith continuing to expand and develop as the years go by. We welcome you during the Season of Easter as adult voting members of this congregation.May 24th, we switch to our summer Worship Schedule here at Norway Grove. For June and July, we will again focus on Bible Stories around the Campfire. Service times are on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. On this Sunday, the Holy Spirit is assured to be sent to the people of God, as Jesus ascends into heaven. We are not abandoned, by God, God indeed continues to provide for us throughout all times and situations!May 31st is the beginning of the loooong Season of Pentecost, where we welcome the Holy Spirit into the Church. It is an awesome day with red paraments, tongues of fire, and the white dove of the Holy Spirit gracing our presence. This year on Pentecost Sunday, we will have a congregational update meeting following the 9:00 a.m. Service.Many exciting things are taking place at Norway Grove during the month of May! Hope to see you at worship as we give praise and thanks to God!!
God’s Blessings to you, Pastor Kathy